Helsinki-based Freepoint Crew (FPC) is an underground hip-hip group originating from
the small town of Porvoo on the southern coast of Finland. The trio consists of rapper
MAZ and producer duo JMA & MATHIAS, who have maintained their sample heavy
and straightforward hip-hop style throughout their career. Clearly influenced by the hip-
hop sound of the 90’s east coast, FPC blends soulful beats with lyrics reflecting a Finnish
mindset.

As a group Freepoint Crew has intentionally maintained its independence and creative
control. The debut album Rhythmic & Melodic was released independently in 2003. Three
years later Finnish independent label Softone Music released a Split EP on 12” vinyl, which
was a collaboration between Freepoint Crew and Gabro & Frankly Irrational. In 2008
Freepoint Crew hooked up with Dutch label Dopeness Galore and released the European
Series 12”, which was distributed by Rush Hour. The record was noticed internationally and
received air play on radio shows such as Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide and was endorsed by
the likes of Laurent Garnier and Domu.

The group now runs Chess Piece Recordings, through which they have released My
Dedication/Circulation on 7” vinyl in 2005, as well as their sophomore album Tailor-Made
in 2008, which was well received among listeners and critics. The brand new album entitled
Three Amigos released in December 2010 through Chess Piece Recordings displays the latest
FPC sound. The album is available on the Internet for free and as a limited CD version. Three
Amigos features the track FIN for which a music video inspired by Pharcyde was shot.